The rapprochement of the two great rivals in the Middle East can defuse many conflicts. However, the return of the ambassadors alone will not solve their problems. China’s role should not be overstated either.
The rapprochement agreed between Saudi and Iran on Friday caused a stir in Washington and other capitals. American experts and politicians took it as a sign of China’s growing influence that Beijing brokered the agreement. The USA is no longer the dominant power in the Persian Gulf, commentators complained. Beijing is no longer satisfied with its role as an economic power and, under Xi Jinping, is also striving to pull the strings politically.